Salkantay Trek

Treks In Cusco

Spain
0 booked

Duration:4 Days
Language English
Transport: Bus, Train
Accommodation: camp, Hotel
N. Pax: 10

Prepare for an unforgettable experience on the 4-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. Discover the breathtaking Humantay Lagoon, behold the majestic snow-capped Salkantay Mountain, and traverse fascinating landscapes ranging from towering Andean peaks to cloud forests and the lush Peruvian rainforest.

Day 1: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Chaullay

We’ll wake up early to enjoy a coca tea while preparing for the most challenging day of the trek. We’ll begin the ascent to Salkantay Pass (4,650 m), the highest point of the trek. This section offers breathtaking views of the surrounding glaciers and mountains, as well as a great sense of accomplishment upon reaching the summit.

After a short break at the pass, we’ll begin the descent to Huayracmachay, where we’ll enjoy a hearty lunch. We’ll continue descending to Chaullay, passing through a cloud forest teeming with exotic flora and fauna, such as orchids and tropical birds.

Day 2: Chaullay - Collpampa - La Playa

After breakfast, we descend through a dramatic cloud forest, where we’ll have lunch. After lunch, we head towards the edge of the jungle, crossing the Lluskamayo River and a variety of streams to reach La Playa. In the late afternoon, we can visit the Santa Teresa Natural Hot Springs (this is an optional excursion; you must pay for the round-trip bus fare from La Playa to the hot springs). Today, we’ll pass through valleys and enjoy wonderful views of waterfalls, tropical fruits and plants. We’ll also pass through a very warm area (optional visit to the Natural Hot Springs) to the hydroelectric plant, where we’ll have lunch. After lunch, we continue walking, passing a variety of crops such as coca and bananas. We’ll walk for about two and a half hours along the railway line until we reach the town of Aguas Calientes, where we’ll spend the night in a hostel. You can take advantage of the town’s hot springs (entrance fee 10 soles), a true pleasure after finishing the hike.

Day 3: Chaullay – Lucmabamba – Aguas Calientes

We’ll begin the day with a hike through the rainforest, exploring coffee plantations, fruit orchards, and other local crops. During the hike, we’ll learn about the coffee production process and have the opportunity to sample organic coffee grown by the local community.

We’ll then continue to Lucmabamba, where transportation will take us to Hidroeléctrica. Here, we’ll enjoy lunch and then walk along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes, the base town for Machu Picchu. This final stretch offers views of waterfalls and the Urubamba River.

Day 4: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

We’ll wake up early to catch one of the first buses to Machu Picchu and witness the sunrise over the majestic Inca citadel. We’ll have a 2-hour guided tour to explore the temples, terraces, and main plazas, learning about the history and architecture of the site.
After the tour, you’ll have free time to explore on your own or take the optional hike up Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (additional entrance fee required). In the afternoon, we’ll take the train back to Ollantaytambo and then a bus to Cusco, where our adventure will conclude.

What’s Included

Briefing sessions
Experienced tour guide
Private camping equipment
One duffle bag
Medical kit or first aid kit
Extras included in our service
24/7 customer service
Satellite phone
Accommodation in private campsites
Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Included meals
Water along the trail
Wake-up tea
Tea time or happy hour
Daily snacks on the trail
One cloth snack bag per person
Hygiene products
Private transportation
Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (Day 4)
One-way bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (Day 4)
Personal belongings transportation
Entrance ticket for Salkantay Trek
Entrance ticket to the Machu Picchu Archaeological Zone

Not Included

Walking sticks (rental US$ 15.00 per person)
Sleeping Bag (rental US$ 15.00 per person)
Huayna Picchu Mountain (The ticket for Huayna Picchu Mountain has an extra cost of US$ 60.00 per person)
Machu Picchu Mountain (The ticket for Machu Picchu Mountain has an extra cost of US$ 60.00 per person)
Lunch in Aguas Calientes and Dinner in Cusco (Day 3)
Train from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes (Day 2) (US$ 34.00 per person)
Personal hiking clothing and equipment
Travel insurance
Tips for our staff
Additional costs or delays beyond our control.

What to Bring:

A valid passport and any other necessary travel documents (e.g., visa)
A small daypack or backpack to carry essentials such as water bottles, snacks, sunscreen, etc.
Comfortable camping gear including a tent (for those who choose to camp), sleeping bag, sleeping pad, etc.
Hiking boots with good grip and ankle support; several pairs of hiking socks; comfortable layered clothing
Sun hat/cap and sunglasses; a raincoat/jacket
Headlamp or flashlight
Waterproof cover for your backpack
Necessary toiletries and personal items
First aid kit

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Salkantay Trek for me?
Perfect for those seeking a more daring adventure as they climb to higher altitudes and endure longer distances! Your journey includes the challenge of conquering the famous Salkantay Pass (4,630 m / 15,190 ft), an ascent that isn't overly strenuous or daunting despite its high elevation.
How many days do I need to acclimatize in Cusco before the Salkantay Trek?
It is recommended to take two or three days before embarking on your trek to acclimatize and adjust your body to the altitude of Cusco, Peru. This will help you avoid potential problems with altitude sickness during your life-changing journey! Even if you have already been to another high-altitude area of Peru, we suggest spending one or two days in Cusco to rest, recover from your journey, and enjoy the sights and sounds of this ancient city before beginning your adventure.
Information session to prepare for the Salkantay Trek
This meeting, which will be held at our main office (or your hotel) at 5:00 p.m. the day before your trek begins, will last approximately 30-45 minutes and will provide you with useful information about the terrain, geography, and altitude you will encounter. If you are unable to attend, please contact us by email, phone, or in person.
About the duffel bag for the 3-Day Salkantay Trek
Before setting off on your trek, take advantage of the duffel bag we provide and fill it with up to 7 kg / 15.4 lb of clothing for the three days. Our horses will do the heavy lifting and carry it along with your food and camping gear. Please note that you will not have access to it until the end of each day. Make sure you have a backpack large enough to carry all your essentials, such as a warm jacket, rain gear, camera, sunscreen, snacks, and water (ideally between 30 and 50 liters).
Can I store my luggage at your office during the trek?
Yes, you can store your main luggage with us or at your hotel before departure. If you have any valuables, please store them in the hotel safe and obtain a detailed receipt. If you are concerned about security, place the items in a sealed, signed envelope. Get ready for an exciting trip with peace of mind!